This article originally appeared in The Muskogee Phoenix
A William Barry Love Foundation grant of more than $1.14 million can help Muskogee Public Schools improve math and reading, plus upgrade other programs.
Foundation representatives presented the $1,149,800 donation Tuesday, Sept. 15, at the Muskogee Board of Education meeting.
“We utilize this funding for staff to actually complete their vision with our reading interventionists,” School Superintendent Jarod Mendenhall said. “We have two at each school. This very truly is impacting our students.”
Mendenhall said the grant is appreciated because funding is tight.
Foundation Executive Director Meagan Moore said the organization seeks to help students find their path to success.
“We want students to know that their community believes in them and is willing to invest in their future,” Moore said. “Whether that means helping a child strengthen their reading skills, supporting a student as they transition into high school, or giving a high school student the chance to earn college credit, each of these programs has the potential to make a lasting difference.”
The donation supports six areas. A $694,400 donation will help fund five reading interventionists and five math interventionists to work directly with students and provide targeted instruction and support.
The Early College High School and concurrent enrollment programs received $150,000. The programs allow students to earn college credit while completing high school and giving them an early start toward their future educational goals. Rougher Extended Day Program received $175,000. The afterschool program offers time for students to get academic assistance and do enrichment activities. A $69,400 will support an English language interventionist to help students improve English language skills.
The Ignite Program for eighth and ninth grade students received $36,000. The program helps students transition into high school while building the skills, confidence, and foundation needed for continued academic success. A $25,000 donation, in conjunction with the Education Foundation of Muskogee, will help students overcome financial barriers to participate in school music and fine arts programs.
The William Barry Love Foundation is named for the former president and CEO of Love Bottling Co. James Gulley, the current president and CEO, said he hopes the grant can help the school district make a difference in Muskogee.